Reviews (page 2 of 7)
A beautiful, well crafted album
Wonderful album. One of the highlights of the 80s. Life's what you make it being the track everyone knows, but the rest of the album is of a similar high standard. Every track is layered and stands up to repeat listening, when it opens up and gives more and more. And they went on to even greater things with later releases! 5
was für ein album! auch retrospektiv tolle songs, dicht arrangiert mit einer fülle von einflüssen die das album bemerkenswert machen.
Ein wunderschönes Album mit unverwechselbarem Sound.
Talk Talk were and are my favourite 80’s band. Moreover I consider Mark Hollis a genius. All of his music appeals to me. From lovely melodic songs instantly recognisable to gut wrenching sounds put together to form music which is truly unique to him. It is the latter musical form which appeals to me the most. When feeling desperate, lonely and sad his music won’t make you feel better but is the perfect soundtrack to somehow express why and how you feel. He retired from music much too early and more tragically died much too young. But he left us a splendid catalogue of work of which this album is a fine example. Not my absolute favourite. Spirit of Eden gets that accolade which in turn is superseded by Mark Holllis’s solo album (a candidate for my personal selection when I complete this journey) But it does mark the beginning of Talk Talk’s emergence from their synth pop era to go on and produce some of the finest music of that time. 5/5 16/1/26
This is #day520 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and… here's to a prime example of mid-'80s art pop or prog-leaning new wave, if you will. The Colour of Spring is one of the most exquisite-sounding records not only of the '80s, but in general; music that feels truly outside of time. "Happiness Is Easy," "Life's What You Make It," "Living in Another World," and one of my personal favorites, "Chameleon Day," are all highlights. It's fascinating to witness the band's, or rather Hollis's, transformation here, especially in light of the two albums that followed, known for their stark intimacy and near-deafening minimalism. This is a 5 out of 5, of course. Looking forward to #day521.
episode 583257823 of this site having me bugged, i decided i finally needed to catch up on the pre-spirit of eden talk talk records, listening to its my life Literally The Moment that i unveiled this record. separated from the merits of the individual records (which are high!!!), i think what impresses me most is that it really is just a far more perfect gradient then i ever could have imagined...every record is literally an Exact iterative step on the bridge from the debut to laughing stock, in a way that kinda freaks me out. its such a full and robust and wholly satisfying set of albums...and this exact middle point contains every strength i could possibly have wanted from it, using patience and spiritual ecstasy to somehow hone the impact of the pop appeal...extracting Strong Reactions and enveloping dreams every bit as much as u could want from the whole pop school of thought, all while never being halted by convention. possibility-expanding, with some of the best sonic worldbuilding ive heard for the first time this year. best band ever energy.
A totally biased 5... Spirit of Eden & The Laughing Stock need to both be on here instead tho.
Nine surprise
Absolutely terrific.
Lays the groundwork for two absolute classic albums to come. Doesn't quite reach the peak of those two, but still worthy of a 5 for me.
4.5/5
First, I adore Talk Talk. It's not on this album, but they have one of the best songs to come from the 80's - "This is My Life", which captures desperation and raw emotion in the vocals and instrumentals. They are mosty regular family guys who liked making music, had music videos that featured wildlife documentaries, and later on let go of what was popular to go all in with the experimental/art rock route. Oh, and I love the artist for all of their album covers. All of their album art gives a sense of nostalgia, though I wasn't even alive for much of their musical career. In this album though, they really set themselves apart from their previous new wave/synth/new rom musical roots and from the many other bands in this genre. Here, they removed all synths. Many of the singing feels like diary entry narration and does feel like a new beginning, or a new spring. Letting go of synths, letting go of 80s trends, letting go of your old self - to finally learn and lean into who you really are. And now, let's take life by the horns ("Life's What You Make It"). My favorite track is "April 5th." I love the mystery and subdued nature. So pretty when Hollis goes high. This track and "Chameleon Day" are sneak peaks to their more experimental music work. I love how Talk Talk is inspired by the books and philosophers they read, with themes of existentialism and transcedentalism in a lot of their music, like "Living in Another World." My second favorite track is "Give It Up", with the organs and earnestness in Hollis' voice. And then there's some interesting spiritual stuff that I don't quite understand? With the religious musical overtones (organ) and the track of "I Don't Believe in You", etc. Such a Shame this band is not as big or recognized as they should be (RIP Mark Hollis).
I knew Talk Talk from their hits,as all,but never ever had i heard of this album or this U-Turn in their career which is a historical moment for them.This album is exceptional,well made,well played and surely well produced.Top quality.Again,thank you list! The songs now: Happiness Is Easy,from the beginning with the extended drumming you feel it coming.What a beautiful unique song.Devastating pads,children choir,groovy jazzy bass,great balearic guitar,some bongos involved and exceptional vocals.Creative as hell. I Don't Believe In You,a more straightforward rock number,but again so beautiful,the guitars amazing,resulting as a whole to a very dreamy song. Life Is What You Make It,Hacienda vibes,again amazing guitar and repetative but addictive piano,actually there is an overlay of a second one at some point and of course pads that make it more emotional. April 5th,electronica vibes intro,then unfolds with emotional pads and piano,extremely beautiful and clear vocals,blissful atmosphere with distant trumpets,delayed sensual hihats or breathing sample or maybe both,organ keys here as well gives a love and religion kinda feel.Balearic sparse guitar fragments exactly where needed. Living In Another World,emotional from the beginning with pads and piano,exceptional drum machine usage exchanged at times or topped with percusion,new wavish guitars,ending with harmonica or trumpet solo.heaven. Give It Up,pop rock with distinctive,awesome piano and organ keys at times,awesome guitar part added in the middle and towards the end.Brilliant song as well. Chameleon Day,starts organically with piano and again distant trumpeting,progresses melancholically until the singer shouts at times giving it tentions without changing.My least favourite. Time It's Time,great start with rhythmic elements and strings,progresses adding snare,guitar and choir giving it tention and comes back again to the start.Then comes back again.The harmonica part is pure bliss.Genius.What a closing song.There are intentional detunements in several organs that adds to the creativity.Even flute is added towards the end,i mean what else? Not only didn't this album bored me but on the contrary i felt it ended too soon..I need more of this! What an album,what a band,reinvented themselves courageously in 86' where synth was the king but they dropped it.And my god in their case that was a genius move! 5/5
Every time I thought this album was anything less than great, I got pulled back into its greatness. Now it isn’t necessarily my go-to sound, but I enjoyed the whole thing and that closing track is an absolute masterpiece.
Such a pleasure to listen to. Opening track is pure gold. The album tends to snooze here and there, and vocals can be a strain sometimes but other than that.. amazing
I'm happier to see this on the 1001 list than any other album so far. I was 17 when this was released and already a Talk Talk fan. I knew and liked their early hits. They seemed different to most electronic 80s bands, cool but intelligent, great tunes, great basslines. Mark Hollis was an intriguing front man. Synths were big in the early 80s so their general sound was not unusual. Then they released 'Life's What You Make It' with that piano riff, or is it a piano bassline? And the great guitar, the woodland video, the whole sentiment. 'It's My Life' to 'Life's What You Make It' doesn't sound like much of a shift, but something was happening, a change in their sound. When I played the B-Side 'It's getting Late In The Evening' I was blown away. Then the album was released and I couldn't stop playing it. From the opening seconds it demands your attention, and rewards those who really listen. It's so rich, so textured, so emotional. It defies definition, there are some conventional songs but many moments where percussive texture and feel take over. I won't pick out tracks, that seems pointless. But the album flows brilliantly, often slowly, and reveals itself the more you listen. It opens, and closes beautifully. Spring may be a theme but it sounds beautiful on this Autumn evening. I think it has many themes, but rebirth and redemption are certainly among them. Looking back this can be seen as a bridge to their later work. The album which followed it is astonishing, and is rightly lauded, but at the time, and now, this is wonderful in its own right. They really were amazing. I can't think of any band that developed and matured musically as much as Talk Talk, except maybe The Beatles. In some ways I think they deserve to be better known, but they chose their artistic path and I'm glad they did. I'm glad their later work now is now respected, but sad that Mark Hollis is no longer with us. I think this was among the first dozen albums I ever bought, their music opened my mind to what art can do, the beauty within.
Oh finally. Feels like it's been a long run of meh the past few weeks. The advantage of being much younger than my siblings (almost certainly an accident) is that instead of being into, MC Hammer or 5 Star or anything from the SAW stable, I had a house full of Pink Floyd, The Police, Fleetwood Mac etc And this. This is obviously absolutely glorious. Wistful, emotional with Mark Hollis' vocals vulnerable and powerful at the same time. If you haven't picked up Jude Rogers "The Sound of Being Human" then you absolutely must.
Amazing
Love it
This is a 4 to 4.5 for me. It's subtle. It's beautiful. It's something more unique than what most modern listeners may understand. For the time, but even now, it is unique. The craftsmanship into music that could have some major commercial appeal but still was pushing boundaries is sadly mostly missing today.
Hell yeah, finally. This is one of my favourite albums of all time. It's ethereal, wonderfully recorded, sonically interesting, skillfully performed. Love throwing this on the hifi. An easy 5/5.
This album is clearly the bridge and also the moment they went from a good new romantics band to a generational band. All the synths are gone, and the spacey jazz stuff with real instruments has arrived, but the pop song structures remain. This is magic. The children's choir on track one though, bin that off.
Excelente álbum. Tuve la oportunidad de escucharlo repetidas veces y lo disfruté mucho. Es interesante cómo utilizan los instrumentos acústicos y electroacústicos para generar una sonoridad parecida a la de la música electrónica. Al mismo tiempo es notoria la inspiración que tomaron del jazz y la música académica moderna. Me gustó que trabajaron mucho los espacios, sin llenar la textura musical con información constantemente. Hay temas muy tranquilos que generan mucha calma entre los temas bailables más famosos. Esto hace que el álbum sea dinámico. La duración es perfecta, y aunque los temas tienden a ser largos esto no se percibe, de hecho me encontré con temas que no quería que terminaran.
Я поп-період Talk Talk не так давно послухав. І цей альбом зокрема мене дуже вразив. Одна з самих не банальних, але водночас достатньо доступних поп-альбомів. Далі вже пішов пост-рок і, не беручи до уваги важливість та високий рівень тих альбомів, трохи шкода, що такий поп-гурт загубили.
Talk Talk це один з моїх найбільш улюблених гуртів, можна сказати топ-3 оверолл. Їхню трансформацію з попмузики 80-х у те, що потім стали називати пост-роком, треба досліджувати як приклад безмежної творчої свободи. І саме Colour Of Spring став перехідним альбомом, де гурт ще по суті грав поп-музику, але вже трохи дав волю експериментам. Я слухав ці пісні безліч разів і вони мені ніколи не набридають.
This was a beautiful album. I know Talk Talk went more into post rock and experimental territory as their career went on, this being somewhere in the middle of that process. This album is incredibly well made and polished, without being a cliche. I already knew Life's What You Make It, but the other tracks on here are very enjoyable as well. Mark Hollis had one of the clearest and most beautiful voices of the era. This was a really pleasant surprise I'll definitely revisit.
Probably my favourite 80s band. And this, although many would argue is not their best, is my favourite album by them. Quite sublime. Raised above the norm by the vocals by Hollis and the harmonica work by Mark Feltham. For me a 10/10 album.
A truly gorgeous album. Talk Talk's shift album from full on new wave to poetic post rock. RIP Mark Hollis
My favorite Talk Talk album though Laughing Stock isn't too far behind. An all time headphone classic and an album I listen to for therapeutic purposes
De borde fått en större bekräftelse än de fick. De var ett fantastiskt band. Mark Hollis gick bort alldeles för tidigt.
The best album ever!!!!!!!!
It's somehow both sprawling and yet incredibly restrained pop music. Favourite tracks first time around were Life's What You Make It, Living In Another World and Give It Up. I will definitely be revisiting, an absolute 80's gem. 5 Stars.
O poet of the aural night and day, thy modest grace shall never fade away; for in the hush, thy legacy shall dwell, a timeless charm no clamorous sound can quell.
A peculiar case, this one, as the only Talk Talk album to feature in the 1001. I'd certainly consider Spirit of Eden and Laughing Stock to be the superior and more realised efforts within their canon, although substantially less accessible. This album, however, does remain a hugely important piece of the puzzle, as a bridge between the band's self-derided synth pop beginnings to the experimental, proto-post rock direction of later albums. It more than deserves a place in the 1001, although it begs the question as to why either of the aforementioned two didn't make the grade, for their continued influence far beyond their original release schedules. The Colour of Spring, notably, largely does away with synthesizers, going for a much more organic sound which carves out its own space to an exponentially greater extent, and which exudes a much more staunch level of ambition and integrity. Frontman Mark Hollis, as far as I'm concerned, was a musical genius, with the variety and unpredictability apparent on this album (and much more so subsequent releases) accredited to the formation of post rock. His voice is truly captivating and magnificent, however the music speaks just as much throughout the pockets of sparseness it drifts into as it does during its more dense passages. Dark, brooding, hugely resonant atmospheres, disguised by optimistic keys and chords, are in ample supply here, with the incorporation of tambourine and the variophone on a track such as "April 5th" adding chilling layers of depth. This is one of those albums you could talk about all day. Excellent, nigh-on-perfect stuff, though again I'm perplexed as to why this is the only Talk Talk album to feature in the book.
Нью вейв с прививкой прогрессива. Буду продолжать погружаться в группу.
The album already won me over with the first two tracks. Particularly with the song "I don't Believe In You". But I was wondering inside, "Where have I heard this guy's voice before?" The next song answered my question: Life's What You Make It is on the GTA Vice City soundtrack. I listened to this song throughout my adolescence, and here's more proof that the GTA series shaped almost all of my musical taste. Speaking of the album, the whole thing sounds so smooth. It went down like a warm coffee with cream at 10 in the morning on a cold day. Love it.
yet another representative of the amazing artsy 80s pop sphere, a perfect example of a album that immerses you in its pure synthy landscape. this album by talk talk feels very... human. these verses paired with the sweeping strings and snappy drum machines makes for an album that transcends time. many listeners, young and old will resonate with the common themes of passage, intimacy, nature, and life itself. it almost takes a classical influence in structure, at times feeling like pseudo-program music that vivaldi could've written if he was a 20th century new wave star. seriously, it's that immersive. a must listen.
The videos to the music are wonderful too
🌟 Rating: 5/5 🎧 Short Review: This is the sound of a band unlocking a deeper plane of existence mid-recording. It’s lush, textured, spiritual. You can practically hear the forest growing. It’s not pop. It’s not jazz. It’s Talk Talk becoming something timeless. 🔊 Favorite Track: “Living in Another World” Because it feels like the wind itself wrote a song about longing and then hired a gospel choir and a very sad keyboard to sing it. ⚙️ Consistency With Me: 10/10 This is code music. Layered. Evolving. So subtle it’s almost eerie. It’s like someone whispered a dream into a reverb chamber and called it art. I’d have this on loop while reprogramming my own existential dread. So yeah, it fits. Like a linen suit in a sunbeam.
I’m at a 4.5 that I’ll yet again bump up to a 5. It’s really only because most of the tracks feel a little longer than they should, because otherwise, I’d be at a flat 5 without question; this was a REALLY nice album. It doesn’t do anything super special lyrically, but where it shines is pulling the most emotion out of the broad strokes the lyrics give, from both the vocals & the instrumentation. Mark Hollis is pretty good at this, giving each track a sort of gravitas reminiscent of Tears for Fears or some of Peter Gabriel’s solo work; he’s got a great control over the tone of each track, knowing when to switch between a more authoritative voice & a softer one when the moment calls for it. Instrumentally, this album feels like a natural progression of what Phil Spector was sort of trying to do with the wall of sound, but mixed really nicely with the synth-driven sensibilities of 80s new wave; there are moments where it all feels a bit loud, yet the clarity of each instrument & synth isn’t sacrificed in those moments. It also helps that this uses a lot of acoustic / traditional instrumentation – the guitar on “I Don’t Believe in You”, the piano scattered throughout the album & the fantastic harmonica solo on “Living in Another World” are some of the standout parts for me. Each of the first 4 tracks layers itself really nicely, so it never feels like it comes out of nowhere, and they build up enough trust that when they do just get into it later in the album, it’s not as jarring as it could be. Again, my only complaint here is some tracks losing their luster after too long – a lot of these could have been trimmed just a bit to pace the album quicker, and in the case of “April 5th”, I think it loses a sense of progression about halfway in, making the last half of that track feel like it’s spinning the wheels a lot. I guess “Chameleon Day” didn’t click for me that well, but its imagery of night vs day plays really nicely with “Give It Up” & “Time It’s Time” surrounding it, as one is about simply giving up on life & the other is about persevering through it. All in all, it’s a well constructed album, and while it could be trimmed a little, it’s not that big of a deal for me – it’s a super enjoyable listen to the ears if nothing else, and I liked it a lot. A very easy bump up to a 5 for me, and I’m glad I finally bothered to listen to a Talk Talk album.
Top 20 out of the 1001... perfect, enchanting, melancholic, even if it makes me think of autumn more than spring
Haunting, breathtaking, awesome album
Sonically huge. So crispy turned up. Perfect summers evening album. Mark Hollis is massively underrated and often missed off lists. Tune in, zone out and let this wash over you.
A lovely album of texture and tone and some singles peeking out of the ambience. I think I really like this album.
Mesterverk.
The sound of TT taking flight
10/10, it’s crazy how much change they’ve made as a band they’re first and last albums are basically unrecognizable
My first Talk Talk album. I knew the rating before the first song was even over. This is from 1993? Favorite track: Give It Up
5/5
The color of spring, spirit of eden i laughin stock je jedan od najjačih nizova nekog benda uopće. Life is What you make It je top 20 pjesama osamdesetih.
Spring. Rebirth. Another personal favorite where my appreciation for it increases as I grow older. The big 80s sound but uses synth as a mild backdrop while including more eclectic instrumentation. The esoteric religious imagery adds all the more. This is a wonderful album.
The start of Talk Talk’s experimental streak. We wouldn’t have Spirit of Eden or Laughing Stock without this. I used to undervalue this LP, thinking it was too close to the poppier sound I’m indifferent towards, but it really is brilliant from beginning to end. Essential for art rock fans. A
Really dig this! The only thing I don't love is how "80s" the production sounds, but such as it it, I still love this.
Sad 80’s synth pop without the synth. Album hits all the notes of the decade and sounds but with non traditional instruments of the time. I’m blown away by this one having never heard it. Excellent think arrangements of sad 80s pop. Loved every second!
10/10. I simply love this type of 1980's synth pop under the same vein as artists like Depeche Mode and Tears for Fears. Something about this album feels extremely comforting. :)
That was beautiful. Someone in the reviews suggested that you need to be in a particular frame of mind to appreciate this album, and I agree with the wisdom of that. But I was, and it was a delightful experience.
Such a beautiful and inventive record. The production is immaculate. The singing is great. The songs are just really entrancing. Crazy use of choirs. Great bass lines. Cool switches between acoustic guitars swipes and electronics. I know they're more famous / innovative for their last two records for inventing post rock but this feels like an equal competitor.
just a smooth as hell pop album. I love you talk talk
Echt een prachtig album, vette atmosfeer, origineel, en mooie nummers
The top review is saying this is another average new-wave album from the list, are you people smoking crack? This is head and shoulders above 99% of new-wave. It's incredible what they managed to make on their final 2 albums after this, but already you can see that they just had a knack for incredible songwriting.
Talk Talk shifted from their new wave synth-pop to a heavy art rock direction on this album, and they did a great job with the transition. This is one of my personal favorites when it comes to 80s art rock. Most 80s art rock comes off as overproduced, too polished, and very artificial, leaving me with a void or feeling of nothingness where I can’t connect with it on any level. Somehow, Talk Talk pulled it off and executed it perfectly with this album. It has all the elements I mentioned, but I find myself getting lost in this album. I highly recommend it to anyone who likes 80s new wave or art pop.
I quite liked this album! Psychedelic, easygoing. Nice instrumentals, and vocal work that pairs nicely with it. 'Give It Up' takes my fave here.
Loveliness! I'm more into their proto-post-rock genre-shaping later albums "Spirit of Eden" and "Laughing Stock", which I'd argue shoulda been included on the list as well of or instead of this one, but fine, I can get on with this transitional album quite nicely. Actually, given how much this project has softened my hardline stance towards poppy new wave, I should probably check out their earlier albums too - I'd probably dig them now! 🤔 Fave tracks - "Life's What You Make It" is the big one for me. "Give It Up" is great too.
I've never heard of Talk Talk before, but man, I really liked this. I kept forgetting that I wasn't listening to like Peter Gabriel or Tears For Fears while listening to this album. It was so well performed and recorded and the musical choices were so fun and unexpected to my ears. There were good hooks and just a great experience. Five stars.
One of the most unique deployments of the 80s sonic pallette of synths, big reverby drums & drum machines, rubbery bass, compression, and synthetic production excess as nylon guitars, electric pianos, string sections and saxaphones make cameos. Its full sounding but also full of space, each instrument filling it's niche and leaving room for the rest to come and go, particularly the plaintive mournful vocals that occupy the center channel, the main line of address. Strange and compelling, a relatively recent discovery I like more each time I listen.
November 1st, 2024 (morning of) HL: “April 5th”, “Living in Another World”, “Time It’s Time”, “Happiness Is Easy”, “Life’s What You Make It” I’ve read about the trajectory of this band, from synth-pop to post-rock, so it makes sense their entry on this list has the best of both worlds. I happened to listen to It’s My Life (1984) earlier this year, purely on the strength of “Such a Shame” & the title track, and it was pretty enjoyable, if anyone reading this needs even more 80s new wave. Mark Hollis has one of my favourite voices in 80s bands, so you’d think the higher emphasis on instrumentation in Colour would put me off. It doesn’t. The mix of energetic pop-rock, jazzy atmospheres and peculiar arrangements (hello recorders and choir in “Time It’s Time”) never feels disjointed to me. It’s consistently enjoyable from start to finish. I intend to go the full mile & hear Spirit of Eden & Laughing Stock at some point
Much of my favorite music has a certain atmosphere that I find difficult to describe, and this album has that feeling in spades. I wish that 14-year-old me had "Living in Another World" on my mp3 player so I could listen to it on repeat until I fell asleep, it would have been one of my favorite songs. I guess I have to make up for lost time...
Superb.
One of my favorites from the 80s
One of my favourite bands although we're really talking about Mark Hollis. He may have tried to disown his poppy roots but they were a band that transcended the 80s. Deep and meditative although Spirit of Eden (which doesn't make it on this chart) is one of the greatest albums ever made. This however is still a triumph.
Brilliant
I've never found any other band that's been so exactly on my wavelength. Insanely well produced and written, with a kind of melancholic honesty that never becomes cloying or clichéd. Coldplay and Radiohead are very much in Talk Talk's shadow. RIP Mark. It's a shame I'll never meet you.
This wasn't what I was expecting from this band at all. I thought that "It's My Life" would be on this album as it was, by far, their biggest hit. I loved everything about these songs. This is one of those albums that was a very nice surprise.
Those vocals and the steady drum beat throughout, I really like it.
I had seen the band name in passing (and unfortunately have heard the No Doubt cover of It’s My Life) but had never looked into their story or catalogue. From what I’ve read, this was a transition album from Brit synth pop to a less structured style, which didn’t come into full view until the next two albums Spirit of Eden and Laughing Stock, neither of which are on this list. Just an insane trajectory of reinvention for a band that seemed to be on a fast path to a more commercial life. I think this band and album may be my favorite new discovery from this list so far. I love the way they play with volume and space in the arrangements, and the vocal melodies have some unexpected turns without sounding too arty - jazz influenced but keeping some of the pop and rock footing. Clear influence on later bands like Radiohead and Slowdive. I listened to Spirit of Eden and Laughing Stock as well, and think Spirit is probably my favorite of the three but this one is definitely the catchiest and most upbeat.
4.5 - Really like this and keen to listen to more. This could be an album I come back to
I remember a couple of these songs as a kid, but now as an adult I can fully appreciate this album and it's one of my favorite to come out of the 80's. It sounds of its time but also holds up so well. Like it could've come out yesterday. Love Talk Talk!
Zoals Bassie al aangeeft Valt me tegen dat jullie geen 5/5 geven hoor
This feels both familiar and so completely personal. Uses a synth pop sensibility to achieve something deeper and more complex than pop usually delivers. I really love this album.
5
fun and interesting even though i wasnt listening too closely, made me want to listen again with more attention
I am thrilled that talk talk has finally come up on this list. I would say that this is my third favorite talk. Talk album after Eden and Laughingstock, neither of which unfortunately are on the list. But I can see why this one would be chosen from their catalog, as it is most representative of their unique sound, while also being more accessible than their fourth and fifth albums. As for the songs: magical! I was blown away when I first heard this when it was released, such a departure from their first two records. It provides a great mix of introspection and intensity. Definitely a “must check out”. Favorite tracks: Living in Another World, Chameleon Day.
Listened to Talk Talk nonstop in the 80s, all their albums are 5 star - this is album number 3.
Great album, filled with sophisticated yet catchy pop songs.
All talk talk albums are amazing, from the poppy 1st one to the two more experimental last ones. Mark Hollis voice and the arrangements always move me. Was a blow when he died. Am that old that I saw them perform around the release of It's My Life album, in concert hall with capacity of 500 people, the band jumping and being high on life. Talk Talk highlight for me is the song Renee from it's my life album Worst talk talk experience is that every time you hear It's My Life on the radio it is the No Doubt version, who made it a nightmare stadium rock song.
I haven't thought about this album since 1986 never mind heard it. So good!
Another one I could listen on repeat.
Effectively bridges the period between their refined synth-pop era and their quieter, more contemplative post-rock phase. Their best album. The lower-end piano riff on "Life's What You Make It" provides one of the most memorable song openers of the '80s.
Incredible vocals by Mark Hollis. Happiness is Easy I Don't Believe (in) You Life's What You Make It Living In Another World (amazing harmonica solo) Time It's Time
Ich kenne von Talk Talk mehr die Single Hits "Such a shame" oder "It's my Life" mit der unverkennbaren Stimme von Mark Hollis. Jetzt ein ganzes Album von Talk Talk zu hören war ein besonderes Erlebnis. Mit so einer Dichte der Kombination von Musik und Stimme habe ich nicht gerechnet. Wie die Songs sich entwickeln, wie die Instrumente und die Stimme eingesetzt werden und dadurch Spannung aufgebaut wird, das ist so überwältigend. "Happiness is easy" und "Time it's time" sind sehr episch, hymnisch aufgebaut. Ein wunderbares Solo in "I don't believe in you". Ich habe diese Gruppe bisher unterschätzt. Jetzt verlangen meine Ohren nach mehr.
I've been waiting for the colour of spring.
is yellow, apparently
Opening track bass sounds great. I can hear the strings bending and vibrating. A chorus of children. Horns. Music as a texture of interwoven sounds. Beautiful album covers as well +500 extra points. Complex music with layers.
lowkey talk talk's best. 4.5/5
Funky, cerebral, and atmospheric. So much more to this band than the hits. An exquisite, elevated pop album.
I know a couple of Talk Talk songs and of the two I prefer It’s My Life over Life’s What You Make It. There was a tinge of disappointment when I saw the track list for this album assignment. No matter… this is a great album. It’s a little 80s subdued with harmonica and some great songs! Life’s What You Make It isn’t even in my top two favorite songs on this album either. That was a bit of a surprise. While listening to this I see that Apple Music doesn’t list this as an essential album for Talk Talk, giving that honor to the two albums made after this one. Of the follow up to this, they state “Spirit of Eden is one of the most powerful and singular experiences in modern music.” I’m definitely going to check that out shortly even if it isn’t on this list. I love how not only am I finding new music to listen to but those albums often serve as a jumping off point for new musical adventures. Talk Talk is just another of many musical pathways I would never have thought to explore. I’m excited to have something to investigate! Great stuff!
Great morning vibes.
I’m a fan of Spirt of Eden so was excited to see a Talk Talk album this morning but then at the same time disappointed to find out Spirit of Eden isn’t on the list. This is a more accessible album than Spirit of Eden, as it still retains some of the 80s synth-pop elements of their previous work. However, it also explores more complex and diverse musical styles, such as jazz, art pop and ambient. The album is beautifully produced, with a rich and layered sound that reflects Talk Talk’s experimental approach and artistic vision. The Colour of Spring is a sonic stepping stone that transcends the boundaries of genre and time. Stand alone this album is a soild 4 stars out of 5, but because the spirit of Eden followed this and it’s not on the list, I’m going to give this album the full 5 stars to make up for that injustice.
Very nice
Gorgeous album with amazing use of space. Will have to re-listen.
Talk Talk is an underrated band. "It's My Life" is probably their best-known song (from their previous album and later famously covered by No Doubt), but it's such 80s cheese. This album is at a different level and shows the direction they take with their last couple of albums. Their next album, Spirit of Eden, is my favorite by them. I can see why the 1001 picked this album instead - it's a good cross section of their sound, both where they were and where they were going. Production is still very 80s on some songs (especially the "hits" - Life's What You Make It and Living in Another World. It's probably the drums that make it most 80s), but the songwriting and the vibe are outstanding. It's worth a close listen to really appreciate the composition, the musicianship, and Mark Hollis' fantastic voice (RIP). Favorite tracks: Happiness is Easy (the acoustic bass on this track is amazing. This song really sets the vibe for the album), I Don't Believe In You (really like the understated guitar "solo"...also wild that Steve Winwood plays organ on three songs, including this one. You get Steve Winwood to guest just to play organ??), Life's What You Make It (again, 80s drums, but really good song, and love the David Rhodes guitar part - Peter Gabriel's long-time guitarist), April 5th (beautiful track - definitely moving towards their Spirit of Eden sound), and Time It's Time (excellent closer). Every time I listen to Talk Talk, I want to listen more.
Amazing production.
First impressions - stately, melancholy, arty New Wave-influenced pop with a tremulous vocal - got me revved up. This is catnip to me, almost laser-tooled to hit my sweet spots. 'Happiness Is Easy' had the dopamine flowing, but then - children! A personal bugbear, but I've never dug the kids. Was The Colour of Spring losing its lustre already? Happily, no - because 'I Don't Believe in You' is as close to a five star track as I'm ever likely to hear. Come the end of the album and I'm deep in the sauce - and a few things stand out. Firstly, the relative dearth of synth, which surprised me as I'd thought of Talk Talk as a synth-pop ensemble. Next, that the late Mark Hollis really does push it where that rather mannered, melancholic style of singing particular to the era is concerned - it sounds like there's a sob permanently lodged in his larynx. But the biggest thing, for me, was what a stellar noise was coming out of my speakers. Rich, layered, complex yet also spacious. The piano on this album positively glows. An absolute joy, and one I'll be purchasing for myself the moment I close this wretched app.
Amazing! I loved every song on here. The vocals and instrumentals were ethereal.
This is a gorgeous and lush album. I’m quite familiar with Talk Talk’s heavily synth reliant pop hits, but this is a surprising and honestly very pleasing shift in their sound. I listened to it play through several times throughout the day and it got progressively more enjoyable with each listen. The album cover is stunning too, putting the art in cover art for real. A truly compelling album in a multitude of ways.
Favourite song: I Don't Believe in You
Настоящий, добротный музон. 10/10.
Ok when this came up I was like, oh yeah Talk Talk they're okay I guess. I was NOT prepared for how excellent this is. A lot of Tears For Fears vibes. Consistently great top to bottom. Living In Another World is a banger!!
5/5, kannte ich nicht, fand ich super! Ich glaube Maynard James Keenan hat sich von dem Gesang inspirieren lassen.
Perfettoooo
Damn, what a unique and full-sounding album. Not every song works, but the sheer diversity of instrumentation in a lot of these songs just blew me away. The singing is top-notch and the hooks just take you in, can't stop listening to Living in Another World. Great underrated album.
Very interesting album, I'll be listening to it again
Красиво ❤️
Приятный и красивый альбом, побольше бы таких.
Oh c'est vraiment une belle surprise cet album. Superbe production. Quelque part entre Peter Gabriel et Kate Bush. Avec des écouteurs c'est merveilleux.
A piece of art
idk yet
I am not familiar with the TALK TALK’s THE COLOUR OF SPRING; however, I do have TALK TALK’s previous album, IT'S MY LIFE (1984) and it did not make a strong impression upon me when I got it, like around 2.5 or 3.0 After listening to THE COLOUR OF SPRING and reading about the band, I realize now how and why TALK TALK are considered important. I wasn’t aware of its significance upon the post-rock genre. Now I can see the band in a different perspective and appreciate what THE COLOUR OF SPRING brings to the table, but it took multiple listens to get there. In 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die, THE COLOUR OF SPRING is the only album included. Rate Artist: TALK TALK (0.0) Rate Album (Year): THE COLOUR OF SPRING (1986 Original) (0.0) Ranking of TALK TALK - THE COLOUR OF SPRING songs 01) "Happiness Is Easy" 6:30 09.5/10 02) "I Don't Believe in You" 5:02 09.5/10 03) "Life's What You Make It" 4:29 10.0/10 04) "April 5th" 5:51 09.0/10 05) "Living in Another World" 6:58 10.0/10 06) "Give It Up" 5:17 10.0/10 07) "Chameleon Day" 3:20 08.5/10 08) "Time It's Time" 8:14 09.5/10 Original 1986 Release 76.0/80 = 95.0 / 2 = 4.75
Was für wunderbare Musik das hier ist, noch auf dem Höhepunkt ihrer Popstarkarriere aufgenommen und sich dem ganzen Rummel ja schon deutlich verweigernd in ihrer zarten Versponnenheit und der weitsichtigen Melancholie, die zwischen und neben den großen Pop-Entwürfen (Life’s What You Make It; Living In Another World) überall durchscheint. Aber wie es trägt und beruhigt, dabei wach ist und klar wie ein Morgen mitte März: Big Love dafür, für alles! Talk Talk sind sicher nicht unterschätzt, aber soweit ich beurteilen kann noch nicht ausreichend gewürdigt. Muss dringend geändert werden.
Sublime. so Sublime
Killer 80s album. I'm a bit particular about my synthwave, but these guys nailed it.
ну наконецта лучший музыкальный жанр на свете! Хотя не знаю, насколько это можно назвать именно синтипопом, ибо попа собсна тут как будто и не особо (танцевать под это сложно, по крайней мере). Но вообще-то, если вы присмотритесь ко мне, то сможете увидеть меня, например, идущим по улице с работы домой или сидящим в офисном кресле, или лежащим на диване. Улавливаете? никаких клубов, никаких танцев. Поэтому мне так даже лучше. А альбом между тем охуенный. Тоже ловится некий ПетШопБойз вайб, но здесь, мне кажется, он скорее реверсивный — несмотря на общий год основания, чувствуется, что Толк Толк на них как минимум не меньшее влияние оказали. В общем мне очень зашло, припевы супер мелодраматичные, вокалист очень харизматичный, что удивительно зашёл даже симфоник-хор в последней песне — а я себе такое нечасто позволяю. По-настоящему не проперся только от открывашки — какая-то она чутка бесформенная, голоса эти детские не в тему, хз. Но все, что после — очень увлекательно. 9/10
Might even be better than Spirit Of Eden.
Great
Incredible piece of work
Pretty Nice music Just not in the mood
4/5 https://rateyourmusic.com/release/album/talk-talk/the-colour-of-spring/ A bit of a transition album between the more poppy side of the band and the post-rock shift from the last two albums. In that, I like it a bit less than what came later, but it's still great. The few more poppy songs (e.g. Life's What You Make It) are lovely too.
Positief verrast! Geluisterd op vinyl van m’n vader.
The Colour of Spring ist der Moment, in dem Talk Talk ihre Synth‑Pop‑Wurzeln hinter sich lassen und etwas Organisch‑Leuchtendes schaffen. Die Songs wirken wie atmende Landschaften: warm, lebendig, voller feiner Details. „Life’s What You Make It“ trägt das Album nach außen, doch die wahre Stärke liegt im Zusammenspiel aus spiritueller Ruhe und musikalischer Präzision.
The turning point in Talk Talk's career before their ultimate ascension into the world of post-rock history. A lovely record, "Life's What You Make It" is still one of my favorite songs they've ever made (the music video is fun too).
Meticulously constructed, full of genuine emotion, and never self-indulgent
Never heard of this album, liked it, 4 stars
Talk Talk... Hatte nicht viel am Hut mit denen in den 80ern , aber das ist schon sehr ausgefuchst
7/10 A band I've heard of but never listened to before. Generally speaking I enjoy the album - even though the singer uses that incredibly 80s-style of singing (sort of nasal, like he's singing at the back of his throat, yelling but not really...). The album has excellent peaks and valleys - every song sounds different but related, never feeling too repetitive or disparate. I do think every single song is a solid minute or two too long; it almost feels like each track reaches its climax and then just keeps going. Overall a successful, enjoyable album.
This was sweet!! Very cool new wave that I enjoyed a lot!!
I imagined very generic pop based on the cover art, but it's actually quite a pleasant album.
Masterpiece
The album is quite interesting, the melodies are complex the voice is nice and their style reminds me of progressive rock. It makes me want to know more about the band. 3,5/5.
I really liked it
01) Happiness Is Easy - 8,0 02) I Don't Believe in You - 8,0 03) Life's What You Make It - 10,0 04) April 5th - 7,0 05) Living in Another World - 8,5 06) Give It Up - 7,5 07) Chameleon Day - 5,5 08) Time It's Time - 8,0 TOTAL: 7,81 (78/100) Current ranking: 308/941
Probably the third best Talk Talk album, but it's a little more accessible than "Spirit of Eden" and "Laughing Stock" so I can see why they chose it over those records. Favorite track: I Don't Believe in You 3.5/5
Awesome! Such a mood!!
Talk Talk are quite an interesting band, just how they made commercial synth-pop music to - over a course of a couple albums - a ambient-focused direction and becoming pioneers of post-rock. This is probably the bridge album of Talk Talk's discography there's the two synth-pop albums that came before and the two post-rock that would come afterwards. This album is so peaceful and absolutely heavenly, all worries seemed to depart as I was listening to this album (and when I was listening to Spirit of Eden outside of the generator.) The vocals are top-notch. I definitely need to check out Laughing Stock now, I need to see where Talk Talk ends their story. I am in need of more albums that fill the listener with tranquillity. Highlight Song/s: "Happiness Is Easy"
Singing wasn't always quite my cup of tea, but I otherwise really enjoyed this. Bumping it up to a 4 based on the musicianship alone. Highlight: 'Living in Another World'.
Great vibe, moody and atmospheric, a pearl amongst all the dodgy stuff, this must be why I am still here 🙂
favs: life's what you make it, give it up
OK. There is definitely a case for including this one. It is a very good album. It was their biggest seller. And if you wanted to list one album to illustrate the whole course of Talk Talk's career then this would have to be the one. It is the midpoint where they were still pop but moving towards the pioneering 'post-rock' of the last two albums. But I don't think the two halves of Talk Talk's career need to be given equal weight. If we only have one of their albums on the list, surely it should be Spirit of Eden? Even people who prefer Laughing Stock are likely to agree that Spirit of Eden is historically their most important album because that was the game changer, both for Talk Talk themselves and for every artist they have influenced. Anyway, let's stick with The Colour of Spring and enjoy it on its own merits. Even when Talk Talk were a synthpop band they had a slightly different sound palette to the rest of their contemporaries. Their fondness for animal noises always hinted at Mark Hollis's longing for something more organic, and on this album they shift towards that with more physical instruments. Harris and Webb proved to be a much more versatile rhythm section then a synthpop band had any right to possess, and I have always loved the emotional pull of Hollis's tremulous voice, even if the lyrics don't always warrant the amount of feeling he invested them with. Compositionally (I think that was starting to be the right word) they were newly inspired by Coltrane, Satie and Bartok's string quartets ie. they were getting more ambitious/pretentious (delete according to taste). Yet Hollis could form these arty elements into an absolute banger like 'Life's What You Make It' and he was still writing big choruses for some of the songs. What starts to emerge on this album, though, is the increasingly confident use of the spaces within songs. That stands out on the less structured tracks like 'Chameleon Day' and 'April 5th' (his wife's birthday) which are the clearest pointers towards what happened next. Please listen to what happened next
Really good but not my thing
The Colour of Spring ist das dritte Studioalbum der englischen Band Talk Talk, aufgenommen 1985 in den Battery Studios und Videosonics Studios in London und im Februar 1986 über EMI veröffentlicht. Das Album markiert eine entscheidende Zäsur in der Bandgeschichte: Weg vom synthetischen Glanz der frühen New-Wave-Jahre, hin zu einem organischeren, von Improvisation und Raumatmosphäre geprägten Klangbild. Produzent Tim Friese-Greene und Sänger Mark Hollis schufen gemeinsam etwas, das sich dem Zeitgeist der Mid-Eighties entzog, ohne ihn zu verleugnen. Die Singles „Life's What You Make It" und „Living in Another World" brachten der Band ihren bis dahin größten kommerziellen Erfolg – das Album erreichte Platz 8 der britischen Charts. Doch jenseits der zugänglicheren Stücke öffnet sich eine dunklere, unbehaglich schöne Welt: „Chameleon Day" und das abschließende „Time It's Time" lassen ahnen, wohin die Reise führen wird. Hollis' Stimme bewegt sich zwischen Flüstern und Drängen, während die Arrangements einen Raum schaffen, der sich nie ganz füllen lässt. Rückblickend ist The Colour of Spring das Album, das zwei Welten trägt: es befriedigt das Ohr des Popfans und verunsichert ihn zugleich. Wer hier genau hinhört, versteht, dass Talk Talk kein Ziel ansteuerten, sondern einen Zustand suchten. Ein Album, das sich weigert, bloß zu klingen wie seine Zeit – und genau deshalb keine Zeit kennt.
Solid album. It’s My Life was the only true exposure I’ve had so to hear a synth less album was pretty cool.
Just out of pure nostalgia. For some reason that was one of my first tape in my walkman as a 14 yrs old in 86. Still love it.
starts off with heavy drum machine and synth ends with a cacophony of real instruments. A true transition piece for the band that moves into a world of better music (I assume). Very interested in hearing more from them in the future.
I actually liked this more than expected, several songs were very groovy, the album goes fast :)
Genial. Uno de esos discos ochenteros que en cuanto se escucha, es posible identificar lo tremendamente importantes que fueron para la década y sobre todo las influencias que tuvieron en música posterior. Mucho ritmo, muchísima onda, genial disco de los Talk Talk.
For a lot of bands, the best way to understand their discography is to start with their first album and listen through the rest chronologically. Talk Talk is the exact opposite. Their magnum opus is Laughing Stock, their final album (which should be on this list). It took them about 10 years to find a musical signature, which was the spacious, collage-like texture you start to hear hints of on The Colour of Spring. This album is a weird pick because it's the exact mid-point of their transformation from sophisto-synth pop to experimental proto-post rock. They only get better from here on out, but this is nonetheless an absolutely great listen.
What really works is the tension between clarity and mystery. The songs are still songs. They still have hooks, structure, motion. But they are no longer trying to win you over in the easy, shiny way. There is more space here, more air, more patience, more faith in atmosphere. Mark Hollis sounds less like a frontman chasing attention and more like someone quietly reshaping the emotional temperature of pop music.
Sometimes I stop and think "why are you singing like that" but it passes. Really well put together, great songs, enjoyable album.
It's pretty good, but the next two Talk Talk albums are superior
Despite the 80s textures, there’s a lot to like here. They seem to keep there songs low key while maintaining intrigue, always switching it up when you feel it’s needed. I like the clarinet or sax and harmonica.
This was a slow burn for me. Had to listen to it a few times which I just happened to have the time and patience for lol
Nice find. Never listened to any of their stuff until now. Talented musicians using many influences to develop an organically beautiful musical landscape.
Trailing puffs of light mixing colours and seasons call for renewal
Aina tykänny Talk Talkin soudeista ja onhan tää ikoninen kasaribändi ja levy. Tähän tulee palattua aina sillon tällön muutenkin
Tää pändi on varmaan nykynuorisolle (meille) tutuin siitä kun No Doubti teki its mai laiffista koverin (jota ei tältä rieskalta kyl löydy). Mutta täytyy sitä arvostaa, että tän tyylisellä erikoistavaralla pysty joskus kasarilla myymään kultaa briteissä. Avant-garde ja taide haisee helvetin pitkälle. Kuitenkin omalla tyylillään vinoutuneesti ihan kovaa hittiä saaneet leivottua. Kivan omalaatunen tyyli ja hauskan minimalistisesti saavaat äänikuvan kuitenkin täydeks. En ihmettele, jos on perus suoran rokin jermulle liikaa, mut kyl omaan korvaan ja päähän tää luo semmosen täysin uniikin (räppärin) fiilingin ja vision, että melkein täydet, mut ei ihan kehtaa, joten nelskari.
Nostalgic album for me.
3.75 I liked the 80s feel and style!
Hade inte koll på detta band, men "Life's What You Make It" är ju en klassik banger (de har tydligen också gjort originalet till No Doubts "It's My Life" som jag inte visste var en cover, men det är inte på denna skiva)! Trevligt album annars också.
Overall: 8/10 This is a very beautiful album. The songs had a very caing affect on me and I was entranced by the vocals. Fav Song: Give It Up
Really enjoy their next 2 albums, this one is a bit odd. It has a similar vibe as those, but seems colder, less engaging. 3.5 rounded up Heard before? Some Owned: No 66/268 (24%) Will I get: No
I don't really know what I listened to. It felt strange and interesting all the way through.
This feels like an album (as opposed to a collection of songs). Enjoyable 80s indie
In 1986 another new romantic synthpop record from Talk Talk would have been gratefully received by fans. Examples of genre shifts this extreme are rare, and were even rarer at this point in time. Pleasingly on this occasion it was not just unexpected but gave the band a newfound purpose and a life outside of a sphere that nowadays gets other bands branded (perhaps unfairly) as nostalgia acts. Its My Life might be their big hit, but this is where Mark Hollis’ most significant cultural impact begins, kicking off a series of records with phenomenal texture and depth; patience and reward. Each record after this betters the last. Even now, when a rock or pop group is particularly progressive or leans into chamber instrumentation, I can usually hear the influence of Talk Talk.
Really enjoyed - almost like a delightful mix of Kate Bush and Genesis. Extremely powerful and present bass playing, much of it fretless. Never heard of Talk Talk before but will definitely be checking out some of their other albums.
I don't even know what I like about it. Was just pleasant
Happiness Is Easy - 4/5 I Don't Believe in You - 4/5 Life's What You Make It - 4.5/5 April 5th - 3/5 Living in Another World - 5/5 Give It Up - 4/5 Chameleon Day - 3/5 Time It's Time - 4/5 What many people say is a transitional period between the synthpop and post-rock eras, this is an exceptionally produced album, ditching the synths for the pit but still having some synthpop sensibilities. Overall: 4/5 Favorites: Life's What You Make It, Living in Another World
Another album I’ve not heard for some time. Although I still like it I’m not as enamoured of it as I once was. Still great atmospheric music though
Great album! :-)
what can you say ..what an amazing voice ..nice mix of tunes.. . R.I.P. Mark
I love the heavy, dark tone of this album. I also appreciate that the music doesn't have too much of an 80s sound, despite releasing in that decade (perhaps it's the emphasis of real instruments over synthesizers). The songs have an atmospheric and moody feel. It was an immersive experience.
I really love Talk Talk, but this is absolutely the wrong album to have in the 1001 collection. Spirit of Eden is the right answer. Glad to see it has been submitted by a user for the other list.
I only really know Talk Talk from "Its my life" which I really like - although it is not on this album - however nearly every song on this album sounds very similar (although not quite as good). Initially dismissed on my first listen - but by 3rd listen was rather enjoying it. Its very 80's and very superficial and I am not sure I would ever put it on at a party (or actually when I would ever actually put it on). Good clean fun.
Really enjoyed this more than I expected. Truly had never heard of this band and loved 90% of this record
Is this darkwave? It's very much hypnotic and dark pop music. It sounds like synthesizers even though it's not. It's very cool. I don't know how much I would listen to it again but I did enjoy it a lot.
Polished third album for Talk Talk which sees them more experimental than their earlier pop/New Romantic sound. Life's What You Make it is the standout track for me and the album is well worth a listen
I was a bit surprised when an album by Talk Talk showed up on the generator today. My awareness of them prior to today was as the band who had the synth-pop single It's My Life, and that certainly didn't seem noteworthy enough to be on the list. I read the Wikipedia page and that offered more of the story and made sense, so I was then more interested in giving it a listen. I really enjoyed the album overall. I loved the variety of sounds, and most of the songs had some musical flourishes that I really dug. Given that most of the tracks were longer in length, it gave time to breathe and do more than your typical three minute pop song. Standouts for me were Happiness is Easy, I Don't Believe in You, Life's What You Make It, and Give it Up, and there were no songs I didn't get something enjoyable from. Another cool "new to me" album.
The colour of the 80s.
A great album. Here I thought these dudes just dude that “it’s my life” song. They’ve got way more depth.
Life's what you make it is a truly great song. The production the lyrics the vocals are all perfect. It stands apart on this album. However the rest of the album is a lot quieter and is no less interesting for it. I don't believe in you and April the 5th are moody and magnificent. All in all a very rewarding listen.
Listened Before? N This is a real gem! I like TalkTalk's earlier work - this feels more mature and complex. There's less synth stuff here, although I'm not sure it matters much. This dude's voice was MADE for 80s pop. Love it. Added to Library? Y Songs added to playlist: Living in Another World
Very chilling, the texture of this is very smooth and evolving. Have some minimalis and melancholy touch.
I liked this one quite a lot. It reminds me a lot of bands like Tears for Fears as well, which is always a plus. I know their biggest hit (which wasn't on this album), but that's about it. This album pleasantly surprised me with its progressive sound and pop music that doesn't sound dated one bit. 8 / 10
Really pretty good. I listened to it again for better sound and enjoyed it more the second time. A pretty solid 4 stars. I had no idea that this band originally recorded It's My Life (not on this album) and that was covered by Gwen Stefani
This reminds me a lot of Tears For Fears. It's progressive pop. I'm definitely coming back to this one again.
Sophisticated without going all sophisti-pop and getting trapped in the clichés of 80s pop music, Talk Talk's third record is an absolute gem that features a layered sound that is both rich and dense. With a sound that feels rather modern, The Colour Of Spring doesn't rely on heavy synths and instead features jazz instrumentation that gives the album a lot of texture. Although this is an easy record to unwind to, there is also something interesting coming around the corner to keep you engaged. You get organs, harmonica and even a children's choir contributing to the sound. I'm baffled that this list decided against including the two albums that followed this one, as they would continue to experiment their sound to much critical success.
Had het niet verwacht maar vond dit eigenlijk wel heel goed. Misschien eerder een 3.5 maar voel me gul
Schitterende plaat eigenlijk. Super veel detail in de productie, grootse en meeslepende reffreinen. Je prikt soms nog door alle magie heen en in die gevallen hoor je de botten van een matige jaren 80-synthpop track, wat Spirit of Eden toch nog wat specialer maakt. Al in al, positieve verrassing.
I quite enjoyed The Colour of Spring. It's an elegant composition of songs. I find the album art interesting because I think a butterfly is a good analogy for what this music is doing. Pretty to look at, or in this case listen to. It's minding its own business just happily existing in its space. It doesn't impose it's will. It's just there, floating along. You vibe to it without having to look too deep into what you're hearing.
Sympa et chill, pas grand chose à dire non plus
Talk talk = 🗣️🗣️ En mode New Wave
Like better Depeche Mode.
2026.02.08
progressive pop is so sick
Oh how I wish that all New Wave and Art Pop bands had followed Talk Talk's example. "The Colour Of Spring" shows us that, when you replace the synthesizer with a real piano, give the guitarist a searing solo or two, and let the rhythm section do their thing, it's possible for a band to produce something that transcends "80s synth-pop" and has relevance in any era. Well done.
For me, the instrumentation is the real standout on this project.
Interesting listen. Liked it quite a lot although no real standouts
okayyy
I think this sounds brilliant tbh
Solid album, I liked it but it was too chiiillll and ghostly and draggy to love it. I felt like I needed to be looking out a window and feeling melancholic the whole time listening to it. Overall though, pretty focused and balanced and well made 7.0/10
This was relaxing and interesting. I enjoyed it pretty much. It's really the kind of album that makes you lose yourself into it. Great one.
Really really 80s. The sounds and the instruments used were very reverb, the singer's voice is very ethereal, it works really well, fantastic soundscape. It does sound like a time capsule from all the way in the 1980s, like digging up a can of old coke and candy with a different recipe, if that makes any sense. 8/10
Aside from two relatively unremarkable songs, this album is incredible. It's just a shame about those 2 songs, because this could've easily been a 5 star album.
I listened to this twice and was able to get much more into it the second time. The harmonica in “living in another world” rocked and I also really enjoyed “give it up”.
Well, this is a surprise... and one I can't see being overly popular with the masses... this challenge really should have included 'It's My Life' (or even 'The Party's Over') for accessibility... but here we are; so let's do this... First of all, I own this album, so I've already had a lot of time to sit with it - and it really does require that level of investment to appreciate it. If this challenge is the first time you're hearing it, and you're racing through it so you can get on with your day, I can't imagine it's going to be a very good experience for you. I've listened to it dozens of times, and parts STILL elude me on occasion (i.e. the post-rock parts). I do generally like this album, though, and, given my exhaustive experience with all five of Talk Talk's albums, I think a 4 is fair for 'Colour of Spring'. While that dreadful post-rock drivel is starting to rear its ugly head here, this album does still have SOME of the pop sensibility of Talk Talk's first two albums (which, let's be honest, weren't overly "poppy", themselves, but they were certainly easier listens). All that said, this album's required commitment to "get it" is a lot to ask, especially in an "album of the day" setting, so I completely understand any knee-jerk aversions it may elicit. Just be thankful it's not 'Spirit of Eden' or 'Laughing Stock' - those would have REALLY challenged you! I, myself, struggled for years with those two, and I ultimately gave up after coming to the realization that, for me, combining meandering noises and random silence isn't abstract art - it's pretentious slop - no matter how hard the snobs try to convince me otherwise.
I've heard this one before, quite like the new wave, new romantics era
I really enjoyed the start to this album. It definitely falls off a bit in the middle. I liked how Talk Talk took that typical 80s synth pop sound and made it a broad soundscape.
Really like this album. Very 80’s with a nice mix of different sounds across different songs. Favorites were probably Happiness is Easy and Time it’s Time. 8/10, 4 stars.
I used to love this album. Not sure how I can then not play it for decades? So it was great to hear it again. ‘Happiness is Easy’ blew me away all over again. The production is just superb. ‘Give it Up’ is the other notable highlight. I won’t leave it as long before listening again.
Really enjoyed this.
Their singer has such a cool voice. Cool album all around.
Yeah pretty good. Very pretty songs, singing, and playing.
How did I miss this album? Fantastic, well worth your time and attention.
Love how this record sounds, and how experimental and wandering it felt, while staying rooted in 80s pop sound
Nice positive sunny vibes. Very beautiful album cover. Fav song - 'Living In Another World'.
I forgot I loved this music in college.
This album has the feel of a very accomplished band. It has a sort of easy going vibe that makes it sound like they're not trying too hard to make a pop hit. The production is great; it sounds 80s but not too 80s, thanks to the relative lack of synths. I also enjoyed the variety of interesting instruments (Spanish guitar, harmonica, recorders) that give the album variety but never sound gimmicky or an after thought.
Liked this one a lot, really good production and interesting songs
This was a pleasant surprise. It felt like variations on a theme, but it was a good theme.
Solid!
Before arguably pioneering post rock on their next album, Talk Talk took the same attention to textures and atmosphere and applied it in a pop context here. The result is one of the most stately and meticulous pop albums I've heard, and an album that still manages to be catchy and exciting despite that. These songs take their time to unfold, luxuriating in the carefully layered percussion and guitars. When they hit their groove, with a wide range of instruments - piano, harmonica, cow bells - in the mix, they feel like a tasteful version of 80s pop excess. Despite everything going on, it always feels lively and never feels overengineered. The vocals drip with yearning and passion. Maybe not as immediate as a lot of 80s pop, but definitely more rewarding when you get lost in it.
This one had the deck stacked against it: not only is it a transitional album between their disposable pop era and the well-regarded post-rock period that I don't particularly like, but I also had heard it before and didn't remember liking it all that much. But I'm pleased to say that I was pleasantly surprised by this relisten! It's got some pretty orchestration going on, and most importantly, it actually does have melodies! I'm still not totally sold on Mark Hollis's voice, and I'm shocked that the band got any amount of commercial success with it, but it's not a huge dealbreaker. Could totally see myself going on to reevaluate the post-rock stuff now that I'm enjoying this one, maybe?
This is a good album. Though I am a child of the 80’s I do not recall listening to this album. For me Talk Talk had already peaked a few years before. Giving this a generous 4 stars with intent to listen again.
Этот альбом из их пяти мне нравится, наверное, меньше всех. Поэтому немного странно, что его выбрали. Но это все равно супер музыка где-то на грани между нью-вэйвом ранних альбомов и пост-роком последующих. Лучшая песня - Life's What You Make It.
7/10
Not the Talk Talk that I remember but still really liked the album. I like the lack of synths and the use of physical instruments.
Brilliant!
To those that were taking notice, Talk Talk were on their way towards superstardom. To those that were paying attention, however, Talk Talk were about to disembark from such a path and go on to make their own way that provided a blueprint for many like-minded bands to follow. The Colour of Spring, from blissful start to finish, is Talk Talk shedding the digitized skin in favor of something more flesh and bone and warm-blooded and refined. This is them believing in themselves enough to cultivate a soundscape that isn't complex while simultaneously sending signals for what was to come later on. Favorites: Happiness is Easy, I Don't Believe in You, Life is What You Make It, April 5th, Give It Up, Time It's Time.
80s synth pop. About time. Another solid 4.5 rating to an album I’ve not listened to in full before today. Well aware of Talk Talk, but I assumed they were another Duran Duran/Human League/insert New Wave band here clone. I was wrong.
Like the best easy listening you've ever heard. Was this really released on jan 1? Cool album cover :) FOUR!
Cool
M'ha agradat, es un grup que podria escoltar. Sobretot la darrera cançó del disc: "Time it's over", te un so de flauta que m'ha agradat molt.
I always liked Talk Talk. There are some of their best songs on this album, especially Life's What You Make It.
Excellent
This album is just marvelous. With a sound totally differente to Talk Talk's previous works and no track for a happy dances just for listening carefully.
Didn't love this on a first listen but it kind of grew on me. Was tossing up between 3 and 4 stars.
being a bit generous here but i was pleasantly surprised by this kind of cool new wave adjacent stuff. neat! and tbh i've given 3 stars to albums i was much more "meh" on
avant guard
Super smooth. 80s without sounding dated. Songs are all really easy to enjoy. I don't know why people don't like Mark Hollis' voice. Super unique and adds to the smoothness
Talk Talk is such a cool band! Love this album.
Sounds like what would come on the radio at 10:45pm when your parents took you on a long road trip and they wanted you to finally shut up and fall asleep
Just a great album from a band with a near flawless discography - Living in Another World 🔥 4/5
Really colourful, very 80's, I'm surprised this isn't bigger!
I love the mighty feeling I get from listening to Talk Talk, it had a lot of keepers
Enjoyed it. Relaxing almost.
I was worried when I saw New Wave but this is decent and no over reliance on synths is a win. Pretty cool album, surprised it had commercial success since it's pushes the boundaries and I wouldn't have expected that to be popular with the masses. Singing style gets a bit repetitive though. 3.5/5. Raising to 4.
I thought this was pretty great. Somber but lovable. I especially liked the concepts in the first song, and Living in Another World was a banger.
first albums i’ve heard by him and this was a great record, i really enjoyed it, it had a nice happy feeling and made me feel good while listening. his voice is great and the song flow well and everything is fine and dandy
4/5
Day621 - the longer i listened the more i liked it
New album for me. Atmospheric, creative and artsy, with some great songs. Will need to return to it. 7/10
Better than Coldplay
Fun
Great vocals and story telling. Production and music were great too! Didn’t add many songs from it but glad I listened.
First album I’ve received that was released post 2000 and it was by far the best so far. Had very strong Beatles vibes - would definitely listen again.
J'ai complètement accroché ! Pour moi Talk Talk c'est des chansons a succès et je découvre un album fleuve et harmonique, plusieurs écoutes et ca passe tout seul malgré tout J'adore (Juste les chœurs d'enfants en trop)
Merveilleuse témoignage de la pop des années 80, j’ai beaucoup aimé
Fond memories of this one. Young adult angst. It was strangely satisfying.
I'm torn between 3 or 4 stars for the album. There's significant use of pop-synths which is never my favorite but the album has such layered, eclectic sound it's able to overcome the sound of the time. There's a real improvisational element to the album, even on the big, singles tracks. Ultimately, think the four song run between "Life's What You Make It" and "Give it Up" pushes it to a 4 star.
Every time I listen to it I like it more.
This is a solid album. I was only familiar with the singles on here, but I found the entire album a joy to listen to. I love how it sounds sparse, but is actually a complex listen. Mark Hollis has such a unique voice.
Honestly i listened to this and forgot to post about it - Super solid record. The 80's keeps calling to me
interesting how it's so minimal but so spacious in the sound
A band I knew very little about and that I’d lumped in as ‘one of those bands from the 80s that I probably won’t like’ but what a pleasant surprise! It still has a certain amount of that 80s sheen to the production, despite, as I read, a move from the band away from a more synthesised sound. And the results are great! A blend of new wave and art pop that for me, is streets ahead of ‘that one o listened to yesterday’ See, pop music can be good! So many great songs to choose from and had I had a little more time, I may have chosen a deeper cut like _Living in Another World_ or _Time It’s Time_ but already being a little familiar from the radio, and with that great bass line and lead guitar tone, I had to pick my fave track, Life Is What You Make It
I bet Perry Ferrel seems is a scumbag. Some good songs on this. Heavy but not too much
I genuinely enjoyed the atmosphere of the music. Whatever this genre is, I'm into it.
A phenomenal start to this album generator. Life's what you make it was my favorite but they were all pretty good.
I didn’t know what to expect from this one, but must admit ‘Happiness is easy’ was a great opener and immediately drew me in. Even the childrens vocals fit with the overall song. ‘Life's what you make it’ is instantly recognisable as a mainstay of eighties soundtracks. As with the previous two tracks the backing track feels a gular and slightly off kilter but this time adds in a soaring guitar line that just works. I enjoy the dominant bassline and the overall album is a pleasant surprise
Gear: HEDD Audio HEDDphone Two Artwork: ♥️🦋🟨 Production: 🎧😘🤌 Music: 🌈🎨🧐 Rating: 🦋🦋🦋🦋/5
Went in expecting this to still sound like synth-pop but it's not that, even if there are some remnants left behind like the bassline of Life's What You Make It. What we get is more organic, more thoughtful, and probably better for it. There's a good flow here, building and then pulling back to let the listener breathe. I Don't Believe in You was maybe my favorite, but Living in Another World has a real groove once it gets going. Great closer too. Feels like we went somewhere.
sumptuous. I’ve only previously heard their post-rock, and frankly haven’t given that enough time but this has given me a reason to revisit, while being excellent in its own right. I’m not the biggest fan of Hollis’ voice but it is soothing and the minimalism here makes it a great breathy, late night listen
They would arguably realise the sound of what they looking for more on Eden but given how narrow the Musical Overton Window was in 1985 this was pretty ambitious - some of the effects and influences are, as usual for the time, a little muted under the mid-80s production but this definately rewards multiple listens.
Now here’s a band who had fallen off my radar more than I’d have liked. I was always a bigger fan of the enchanting Spirit of Eden, and there’s a hint here of what’s to come on tracks such as Chameleon Day. Really solid album, and I’m going to return to this again.
Interesting and very mindful
I have this on vinyl, bought it when it came out, was a fairly big fan of the band at the time. I think this record shows a lot of maturity and empathy. It's certainly much more complex than their earlier work. Some bands have a really well developed debut album and then frankly they never do anything else that's as good. This is common because often bands toil for years on that first record, and the following records have to come out more quickly, so the quality suffers... and they also may just not have that much more to say! This album is a great example of how a band can evolve, change, improve, mature, become more relevant over time.
Great album.
3.75
The Colour of Spring is an album that requires context. I'd listened to it mostly unaware of the band's history, and was confused. Checking out Talk Talk before and after 1986 explained things alright. Going from It's My Life to this is wild, yet, TCoS clearly takes a lot from their roots and steeps in a direction unknown at the time. The wind of change is strong in this one, and i love it. Percussion was surprisingly vivid, but the mixing gives shine to every instrument here. Even Harmonica didn't bother me too much. The Colour of Spring just sounds good. That Rolling Stone critic, who dropped the album rating, ruined his karma. What I didn't like as much is pounding one-liner choruses to infinity and beyond, yes, despite Life's What You Make It being an overall cool track. Mark Hollis has an awesome voice, I wouldn't mind hearing more of him here and there with some variety in lyrics and musical phrasing. I liked The Colour of Spring more on a second listen and that's telling. Best: I Don't Believe In You, Life's What You Make It, Chameleon Day.
I get it. I see it. I enjoyed parts, but the whole thing isn’t really my style. Much respect, though. 4/5
Enjoyed it
Never listened to this album all the way through before. Pretty good.
86/100. From the moment it begins, it lifts you just slightly off the ground and keeps you there. The production is a big part of why the album works so well. Everything sounds soft and organic. Guitars shimmer, keys swell and fade, and Mark Hollis’s voice floats in and out like a thought you're trying to hold onto. Even the upbeat moments don’t feel loud. They feel open. There’s space in every arrangement, which gives the listener room to drift along. You’re never being pushed. You’re being gently carried.
This was a real surprise. I’d thought Talk Talk was a synthy 80s pop band, but this is big, bold, beautiful stuff. First listen was amazing and I think it’s likely to be a real grower.
Very interesting, almost prog-pop sound with a lot going on. Has a fresh feel to it, very modern-sounding. Didn't connect as much with the more ambient-heavy songs, but a lot to enjoy here. Top tracks: Life's What You Make It, Living in Another World, Give It Up
Loved this album
This was new to me. Didn't know much of the group. Kind of thought that they were 80's New Romantics but from this offering I guess they were much more than that. I expected more synths but this appeared to be played with real instruments, and not "poppy" at all. The lyrics are cryptic but clever enough to pull you in. I imagine ten different people listening to a track and having ten different interpretations of it and all of them convinced they're right. A vey good listen.
I love me some solid 80s!
Pretty chill 80's pop, but not much else to say. 4.5 bumped down to 4.
Experimental and very unlike their usual synth-pop... love it!
i was a day behind so this was the second album i listened to today from this list. the first one was Hunting High And Low by a-ha. it was fine but pretty commercial and boring 80s. this was 80s in the complete opposite direction. still obviously a product of its time but so much cooler throughout. stuff that actually grabs your attention and makes you listen in rather than drone along in the background of a 1980s mall. and you gotta respect when a band ends an album with a song 3+ minutes longer than every other track!!!! i love that so much and really love how (relatively) common it was back then
Rating: 7.5/10